Chronic pain can disrupt daily life, affecting both physical and mental well-being. Radiofrequency treatments (RFT) have emerged as a valuable option for individuals seeking long-term pain relief without invasive surgery.
Radiofrequency treatments involve the use of radio waves to generate heat and target specific nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals to the brain. By disrupting the ability of these nerves to send pain signals, RFT can significantly reduce or even eliminate chronic pain in various parts of the body.
Radiofrequency treatments are most commonly used to manage pain originating from the spine, joints, and muscles, making them a suitable option for conditions such as arthritis, back pain, and nerve-related discomfort.
What Is The Purpose of Radiofrequency Treatments?
The primary purpose of radiofrequency treatments is to provide longer-lasting pain relief by targeting the source of the pain directly. These treatments are particularly useful for individuals who have not responded well to conservative therapies such as medication or physical therapy.
RFT is frequently used for:
Chronic back and neck pain: Often associated with conditions like arthritis, spondylosis [link to Cervical & Lumbar spondylosis] or disc degeneration.
Arthritic joint pain: Targeting joints in the spine, hips, or knees.
Nerve-related pain: Such as sciatica or trigeminal neuralgia, where specific nerves [link to Nerve/Neuropathic pain] are the source of the pain.
This minimally invasive procedure can help reduce dependency on pain medications and improve a patient’s overall quality of life by enabling them to participate in physical activities with less discomfort.
What Are the Types of Radiofrequency Treatments?
There are several types of radiofrequency treatments, each designed to address different types of pain and nerve involvement. The main types include:
Conventional Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): This treatment involves the use of a high-frequency electrical current to heat and destroy the targeted nerve tissue, thereby blocking the transmission of pain signals.
Pulsed Radiofrequency (PRF): Unlike conventional RFA, pulsed radiofrequency uses short bursts of electrical current at a lower temperature. This allows the nerve to be modulated, rather than completely destroyed, making PRF a gentler option for treating certain types of pain.
Cooled Radiofrequency: In this procedure, the radiofrequency needle is cooled during the treatment. This cooling allows the treated area to expand, targeting a larger area of nerve tissue while still preserving surrounding structures.
What Are the Benefits or Risks of Radiofrequency Treatments?
Benefits
Long-lasting relief: RFT often provides relief for 6 to 12 months, with some patients experiencing even longer benefits.
Minimally invasive: The procedure does not require open surgery, and patients can typically return home the same day.
Reduced need for medication: By effectively managing pain, RFT can reduce the need for chronic pain medications and their associated side effects.
Improved mobility: With less pain, patients can engage in physical therapy or other rehabilitative activities to restore movement and strength.
Risks
While radiofrequency treatments are generally safe, there are some risks involved, including:
Nerve damage: In rare cases, the targeted nerves may be damaged, leading to increased pain or altered sensation.
Temporary increase in pain: Some patients experience a temporary flare-up in pain after the procedure, although this typically resolves within a few days.
Your doctor will carefully review your medical history and discuss any potential risks before recommending RFT.
How Do Radiofrequency Treatments Work? What Do I Need to Prepare?
Radiofrequency treatments work by delivering targeted frequencies to specific nerves, using specialised probes. These controlled frequencies disrupt the pain-signalling nerves, reducing the transmission of pain to the brain.
Preparation:
Inform your doctor of any medications you are currently taking, especially blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, as these may need to be adjusted before the procedure.
On the day of the treatment, wear loose, comfortable clothing, and arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
You may be advised to fast for a few hours prior to the treatment, depending on the location of the pain being treated.
What Should I Expect During and After Radiofrequency Treatments?
During the procedure:
You will lie on an examination table, and the doctor will position the radiofrequency probe near the targeted nerve.
The radiofrequency current will be applied for a short duration (usually 60 to 90 seconds), generating heat that disrupts the nerve's ability to send pain signals.
After the procedure:
Most patients can go home the same day, although some may experience mild soreness at the site for a day or two.
Pain relief may begin immediately or within a few days as the targeted nerves are gradually disrupted.
You can resume light activities the following day, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least a week.
Your doctor will provide post-procedure care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and monitor your progress during follow-up appointments.Radiofrequency treatments offer an effective and minimally invasive solution for managing chronic pain, helping patients regain mobility and reduce their reliance on medications. Schedule a consultation with Dr Charles Siow to learn how radiofrequency treatments can be tailored to your specific needs.
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MT ALVERNIA HOSPITAL
820 Thomson Road #08-59 Medical Centre D Singapore 574623
